The layer of the atmosphere closest to Earth is called the troposphere. This is the densest layer and is where we live, breathe, and experience weather. It extends from Earth's surface up to about 8 to 14.5 kilometers (5 to 9 miles) high.
Here's a breakdown of the atmospheric layers from closest to Earth to furthest away:
- Troposphere: The lowest layer, containing most of the atmosphere's mass and all of our weather.
- Stratosphere: Contains the ozone layer, which absorbs harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
- Mesosphere: The coldest layer, where most meteors burn up.
- Thermosphere: A very hot layer, where the International Space Station orbits.
- Exosphere: The outermost layer, where the atmosphere gradually fades into space.
The troposphere is crucial for life on Earth because it contains the oxygen we breathe, the water vapor that forms clouds and rain, and the gases that regulate Earth's temperature.
